Ship Engineers
Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed
Supervise and coordinate activities of crew engaged in operating and maintaining engines, boilers, deck machinery, and electrical, sanitary, and refrigeration equipment aboard ship.
Median pay: $109,530/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +1.6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 1,100 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Postsecondary nondegree award.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Monitor engine, machinery, or equipment indicators when vessels are underway, and report abnormalities to appropriate shipboard staff.
• Monitor the availability, use, or condition of lifesaving equipment or pollution preventatives to ensure that international regulations are followed.
• Monitor and test operations of engines or other equipment so that malfunctions and their causes can be identified.
• Start engines to propel ships, and regulate engines and power transmissions to control speeds of ships, according to directions from captains or bridge computers.
• Perform or participate in emergency drills, as required.
• Perform general marine vessel maintenance or repair work, such as repairing leaks, finishing interiors, refueling, or maintaining decks.
• Maintain or repair engines, electric motors, pumps, winches, or other mechanical or electrical equipment, or assist other crew members with maintenance or repair duties.
• Maintain complete records of engineering department activities, including machine operations.
What's the median pay for Ship Engineers?
The median pay for Ship Engineers is $109,530 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Ship Engineers?
Employment for Ship Engineers is projected to change +1.6% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Ship Engineers?
Typical entry-level education: Postsecondary nondegree award.
How many job openings are there each year for Ship Engineers?
About 1,100 openings per year, on average, over the decade.